Have you ever been given a template to use to help create your CV? There are loads available on the internet, and readers of a certain age may have used in-built templates on Microsoft Word. They usually tell you to complete sections for Education, Employment and Skills, and some include “Hobbies” or “Interests” – but what should you write?
Our most recent blog posts have told you some of the basic principles that you should use on your CV, and also how to get your CV read by potential employers, but today we will focus on what to write under “Interests”.
This section won’t necessarily get you the job, but it could make a really positive impression with the person who is reading your CV. Remember that they are humans too, so if you play hockey at weekends, and that is their favourite sport, then it is bound to stick in their mind.
A quick tip to start
Try not to use the word “Hobbies” – this sounds like the kind of thing that you talk about when you are still at school. Instead, call this section “Interests”, or even better, “Achievements” – this sounds much more positive and creates an impression of you as a proactive individual.
What should you include?
As we mentioned recently, try and include evidence of what you have done, and if this shows off some of your key skills, then so much the better. If you have done something on the side, then it might be useful e.g. if you are applying for a role in marketing, then it might be worth mentioning your blog or Instagram feed; or if you have got a certificate from any courses your have done (including online such as LinkedIn Learning or Google Digital Garage), it cannot hurt to include them.
Information not included elsewhere
Sometimes, you just aren’t sure where to put something. Have you baked cakes for your friends’ birthdays and anniversaries? It might be worth including here. Don’t forget as well, that if you have a driving licence and any additional qualification e.g. First Aid At Work, you should mention them, either here or elsewhere on your CV.
Don’t be shy!
Make the things you have done count! Don’t just put “I like running and took part in a charity fun-run”; how about “I enjoy running to keep fit and managed to raise £140 in the 2019 Nottingham 5K Fun Run”? Definitely avoid bland phrases such as “I like reading and watching films”, instead try and add some detail such as “I particularly enjoy murder mystery novels and love visiting my local independent cinema”.
Don’t fake it!
Simply put, people who read lots of CVs can tell if you are just saying it to try and sound impressive. If you lie then you will probably get caught out. No-one expects you to have climbed Kilimanjaro or run the London Marathon, but try and make the most of what you have done.
If you are not sure how to make the most of your CV, then get in touch and we can help.
Karuna CV 